Ramen Noodles Market Size
Global Ramen Noodles Market reached US$ 52.34 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 90.09 billion by 2031, growing with a CAGR of 6.96% during the forecast period 2024-2031.
Rapid urbanization taking place globally fueling the demand for convenient and quick meal options like ramen noodles. Busy lifestyles create a perfect market for this product in various regions increasing the product demand. In addition, the instant ramen noodles can be customized by adding different sauces, vegetables and proteins to create a variety of flavors and textures to satisfy every consumer's taste.
The new product introductions by manufacturers considering their demand towards new flavours, diet and environmental concerns are resulting in the launch of products. For instance, in October 2023, Nissin Foods USA, announced that Cup Noodles with a new paper cup design replacing the polystyrene cup. The updated packaging for the on-the-go cup is microwaveable, making the brand even more convenient for consumers to enjoy.
Asia-Pacific dominated the global ramen noodles market. High noodle consumption in these regional countries drives market growth. According to World Instant Noodles Association 2024, 120,210 million servings of noodles were consumed in 2023. Of these, China holds 42,210 million servings and 8,680 million servings under India. Japan accounted for 5,840 and Korea 4,040 million servings respectively.
Market Summary
| Metrics | Details |
| CAGR | 6.96% |
| Size Available for Years | 2022-2031 |
| Forecast Period | 2024-2031 |
| Data Availability | Value (US$) |
| Segments Covered | Type, Flavor, Packaging, Distribution Channel, End-User and Region |
| Regions Covered | North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle East & Africa |
| Fastest Growing Region | Asia-Pacific |
| Largest Region | North America |
| Report Insights Covered | Competitive Landscape Analysis, Company Profile Analysis, Market Size, Share, Growth, Demand, Recent Developments, Mergers and Acquisitions, New Product Launches, Growth Strategies, Revenue Analysis, Porter’s Analysis, Pricing Analysis, Regulatory Analysis, Supply-Chain Analysis and Other key Insights. |
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Market Dynamics
Convenience Provided by the Ramen Noodles
Ramen offers a quick and easy option for busy schedules. It requires minimal preparation, making it ideal for anyone short on time or culinary skills. This ease of use makes ramen noodles has become a staple in many households. These products act as a quick meal solution for people with hectic schedules involved in studies and work.
In addition, the affordability option of the ramen noodles is budget-friendly. Their low cost makes them accessible to a wide range of consumers. The convenience, quick, affordable, and hassle-free meal options are driving the market expansion. The new products laucnhed in the market with the easy-to-use nature are expanding its growth in the global market.
For instance, in November 2023, Nissin Foods USA, top ramen and cup noodles manufacturer added a new format to its Hot & Spicy Fire Wok portfolio. The product line features square ramen packs of chili-infused noodles alongside the original microwavable noodle cups. Hot & Spicy Fire Wok Packets are ready to serve after five minutes of boiling, and the packs are initially available in Torched Teriyaki and Screamin’ Sichuan Beef flavors.
New Product Introductions
With the changing consumer diet preferences, manufacturers are also introducing options that would satisfy their needs. By offering healthier ingredients and a wider range of flavors, the manufacturers are ensuring it remains relevant and appealing to a new generation of consumers who value both convenience and a healthy experience. Increasing diet restrictions with gluten-free, organic and vegan options among global consumers motivates manufacturers to launch new products in that category.
For instance, in November 2023, Japan’s Ishimaru launched veg dry noodles in India. The company claims that the two popular dried noodle varieties Udon noodles and Ramen noodles that are 100 per cent vegetarian and contain no preservatives. Variety flavours is also high in demand. For instance, in November 2023, Nestle Maggi entered into the hot and spicy Korean noodles space with the launch of instant noodles with BBQ Chicken and BBQ Veg flavours.
Health Concerns Associated with Ramen Noodles
High sodium, preservatives, and MSG in the ramen noodles hinder market expansion due to the high consumer shift toward healthy diet options. Traditional ramen noodles typically lack essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals and fiber. This perception discourages consumers who prioritize a well-balanced diet rich in whole foods.
In addition, instant ramen is notorious for being loaded with sodium, primarily from the flavor packets. This can be a major turn-off for health-conscious consumers who are aware of the link between high sodium intake and health problems like high blood pressure and heart disease. Some instant ramen varieties contain unhealthy fats, often saturated or trans fats, which can contribute to negative health outcomes if consumed regularly.
Market Segment Analysis
The global ramen noodles market is segmented based on type, flavor, packaging, distribution channel, end-user and region.
Quick and Easy Preparation of Instant Ramen Noodles
The global ramen noodles market is segmented based on type into instant, fresh and dried. The instant ramen noodles segment accounted for the largest share with the high convenience and quick meal preparation type. The hectic work schedule of people is driving the demand for ready-to-eat food products that are quick to prepare and consume without obstructing daily routines.
Convenient food products have become widely popular among consumers by offering several benefits such as longer shelf-life, instant appetizers and wider availability. Instant ramen noodles matching all the requirements is dealing the segment growth with high demand. They are an affordable and accessible food option, especially for people on a tight budget or in low-income countries.
According to the World Instant Noodles Association, the demand for instant noodles has increased from 100,110 million servings in 2017 to 118,180 million servings in 2021. In May 2023, WINA published the global demand for instant noodles in 2022. It’s the largest ever at 121.2 billion servings, and the demand is growing year by year.
Market Geographical Share
High Noodle Consumption in Asia-Pacific
Asia-Pacific dominated the global ramen noodles market. Ramen noodles have a long history and deep cultural roots in many Asian countries, particularly Japan, South Korea and China. They are considered a familiar and comforting food option. The affordability of ramen noodles makes them accessible to a wide range of consumers, especially in developing economies within the region.
The regional countries have high product consumption due to its taste and easy preparation. According to the Malaysian Palm Oil Council, the simplicity of instant noodle preparation and its taste made it to be one of the widely consumed meals around the world. China alone consumes about 40 billion packages of instant noodles per year which is approximately 39% of the world’s total consumption.
The region boasts a well-established manufacturing ecosystem for instant noodles. The established infrastructure allows for efficient production, keeping costs down and ensuring a steady supply. Manufacturers cater to local preferences with a wide variety of flavors and formats, keeping the market exciting.
Market Key Players
The major global players in the market include Nissin Foods, Maruchan Inc, PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk, LINGHANG FOOD (SHANDONG) CO., LTD, Nippon Trends Food Service, Inc., Takara Ramen Inc., AKASH YOG HEALTH PRODUCTS PVT. LTD., OTTOGI CORP., Vedan Enterprise Corporation and Masterchow Foods Private Limited.
COVID-19 Impact Analysis
The COVID-19 pandemic had a moderate impact on the global ramen noodles market. The disruptions in the supply chain and distribution channels hurt the manufacturing and distribution of the product. The health concerns related to ramen noodles and the shift in consumer preferences towards healthier options have also halted the market growth.
As lockdowns became widespread, consumers turned to panic buying and stockpiling essential food items. Ramen's affordability, long shelf life, and convenience made it a popular choice during this period. This led to a surge in sales in the initial stages of the pandemic. In addition, with restaurants closed or offering limited service, people cooked more at home. Ramen offered a quick and easy meal option, further increasing temporary sales.
Key Developments
- In November 2023, Nestle Maggi entered into the hot and spicy Korean noodles space with the launch of instant noodles with BBQ Chicken and BBQ Veg flavours.
- In November 2023, Nissin Foods USA, top ramen and cup noodles manufacturer added a new format to its Hot & Spicy Fire Wok portfolio. The product line features square ramen packs of chili-infused noodles alongside the original microwavable noodle cups.
- In October 2023, Nissin Foods USA, announced that Cup Noodles with a new paper cup design replacing the polystyrene cup.
Why Purchase the Report?
- To visualize the global ramen noodles market segmentation based on type, flavor, packaging, distribution channel, end user and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
- Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
- Excel data sheet with numerous data points of ramen noodles market-level with all segments.
- PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
- Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.
The global ramen noodles market report would provide approximately 78 tables, 76 figures and 234 pages.
Target Audience 2024
- Manufacturers/ Buyers
- Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
- Research Professionals
- Emerging Companies
